Hints For Warming Up On Cold-weather Days

When we Florida folks, especially those of us who live here year-round, get some chilly weather, we really freeze.

I can hardly believe I survived 24 degrees below zero in Milwaukee and now wear a sweater at 65 degrees.

Many of our Florida houses stay chilly during our cold snaps. Here are some tips to help you stay more comfortable:

First, let the sun shine in. Open all your window shades and curtains on the sunny side of your house. During our hot summers, close to keep cool.

When you build or remodel your Florida house, be sure to include a fireplace. It really keeps the chill out and you can burn wood scraps overcrowding city dumps. We have a gas burner in our fireplace and it works like a minifurnace.

Don't throw out the dishwashing or bath water until it cools off. You'll be surprised how cozy it can make a room.

Wear vests and thermal underwear. Folks may laugh at the thought of wearing long johns in Florida, but they keep you warm without increasing your electric bill. Wearing a wooly hat and mittens helps, especially when attending Florida's many outdoor winter festivals. The recent Grant Seafood party had 80-degree weather on one day with 40s the next.

Make soups and stews. You will be amazed at how much heat a crockpot will give you while making an eight-hour recipe for chili.

For years I've been baking potatoes on cold days. It heats the house and gives some inside heat too.